In the first few weeks of a new school year, as I write my lesson plans, I include getting-to-know-you activities. These activities provide opportunities for the students to interact positively with one another.

Teaching 1st grade is a joy! Each day, children who are full of energy walk through my classroom door eager to learn. They gather around my table to read books, share desk space to interact with manipulatives and laptops, and sit with a shoulder...